The Elemental Educator Podcast

Episode 55: How to Create Inclusive Classrooms for Multilingual Learners (with Katherine Hamilton)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Katherine Hamilton, VP of Programs at Ensemble Learning, about how leaders and educators can create inclusive, equitable environments for multilingual learners. With years of experience in curriculum design, federal grant implementation, and coaching educators, Katherine shares powerful insights into supporting language development, building classroom culture, and making bold decisions that drive meaningful impact.
Discover how schools can shift from surviving to thriving by embracing student voice, multilingualism, and equity-focused leadership.
🚀 Want more strategies for leading inclusive schools? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly insights!
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Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.ensemblelearning.org
Email: khamilton@ensemblelearning.org
Engagement Question:
What’s one change your school has made—or could make—to better support multilingual learners? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
6:53 - Grounded Moments
18:00 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
28:40 - Ripples of Change
37:50 - Spark or Burn
47:20 - How to get Buy In
 
#MultilingualLearners #InclusiveEducation #SchoolLeadership #EquityInEducation #BilingualEducation #EnsembleLearning #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #KatherineHamilton #LanguageDevelopment

Episode 54: How to Support Burnt-Out Teachers and Build a Thriving School Culture (With Brittany Thompson)

How to Support Burnt-Out Teachers and Build a Thriving School Culture
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Brittany Thompson, an experienced administrator from East Texas, to discuss burnout, school culture, and the challenges of leadership. With over 16 years in education, including 8 years in administration, Brittany shares her insights on transforming struggling schools, building teacher morale, and fostering student success. Learn how to lead through adversity, support struggling teachers, and create a culture that inspires students and staff alike.
🚀 Want to grow as a leader? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at:
tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepreoccupiedprincipal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepreoccupiedprincipal
Email: thepreoccupiedprincipal@gmail.com
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
#TeacherBurnout #SchoolLeadership #BuildingCulture #EducationMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #TeacherSupport #SchoolImprovement #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #BrittanyThompson
TimeCodes:
0:00 - Introduction
5:57 - Grounded Moments
11:33 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
22:52 - Ripples of Change
32:08 - Spark or Burn
42:18 - Listener Questions
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 53: The Ultimate Guide to Conflict Management for School Leaders (with Dr. Jen Schwanke)

The Ultimate Guide to Conflict Management for School Leaders
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Dr. Jen Schwanke—deputy superintendent, author, and educational leadership expert—to explore how empathy, grounded values, and bold decision-making shape strong school leaders. Jen shares her journey from teaching to leadership, discusses the power of quotes and wisdom in leadership, and offers insights on navigating adversity and implementing change in schools. Learn how to lead with calm and intentionality, support educators through conflict management, and build a culture where values and collaboration drive success.
🚀 Want to deepen your leadership skills? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator Connect with Me: Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/ 📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources: X: @jenschwanke instagram: @drjenschwanke website: jenschwanke.com email jen@jenschwanke.com https://www.ascd.org/people/jen-schwanke https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Jen-Schwanke/author/B0B6MZ1T28
Engagement Question: What’s your go-to strategy for staying grounded during challenging times? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
8:05 - Grounded Moments
18:40 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
30:45 - Ripples of Change
43:05 - Spark or Burn
52:45 - Listener Questions
#LeadershipInEducation #SchoolCulture #ConflictManagement #EmpathyInLeadership #GroundedValues #TeacherSupport #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #JenSchwanke
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 52: What’s Holding You Back? The Power of Action in Leadership (with Vernon Wright)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Vernon Wright—speaker, mentor, consultant, and leadership expert—to explore how values-driven leadership, massive action, and empathy shape high-performing leaders. Vernon shares his journey from corporate work to education and how building relationships, taking action, and leading with integrity have allowed him to impact leaders globally.
Learn how to navigate adversity, align your leadership with core values, and take bold, decisive action toward your goals.
🚀 Want to level up your leadership? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.thewrightleader.com
Twitter (X)/Instagram/BlueSky: https://twitter.com/TheWrightLeader
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vernondwright
Engagement Question:
What’s one bold action you can take today to move closer to your leadership goals? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:37 - Meet Vernon Wright: Speaker, Mentor, and Leadership Consultant2:15 - The Power of Massive Action and Values-Driven Leadership5:22 - Vernon’s Journey from Business to Education8:45 - Understanding Why Core Values Matter in Decision-Making12:07 - The Role of Empathy in Leadership and Humanizing Leadership16:26 - How to Navigate Adversity with Confidence and Resilience19:47 - How to Overcome Resistance to Change in Leadership24:30 - The Importance of Self-Talk and Re-Centering Your Leadership Approach28:45 - The Biggest Leadership Lessons Vernon Has Learned32:40 - What Makes a Great Leader? The Power of Authenticity and Service36:52 - Why Nothing Changes Unless You Change40:28 - Vernon’s Final Thoughts and Action Steps
#LeadershipDevelopment #MassiveAction #ValuesDrivenLeadership 
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 51: What a Top Leader has to Say about Positive Cultures (wtih Phil Willott)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Phil Willott, the Director of Education at the Raleigh Education Trust, about the power of trauma-informed practices, inclusive leadership, and values-driven decision-making. Phil shares his journey from criminology to education and how his core values of kindness, courage, and relationships have shaped his approach to leadership. Discover how trauma-informed education transforms schools, why values-driven leadership matters, and how to implement courageous change while navigating challenges in education. 🚀 Want to grow as a leader? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/ 📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-willott-4445031b/
Engagement Question: What values do you think are most important in school leadership? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
0:36 - Meet Phil Willott: Director of Education, Raleigh Education Trust
2:14 - From Criminology to Education: Phil’s Unconventional Journey
5:42 - The Power of Kindness, Courage, and Relationships in Leadership
9:15 - How Trauma-Informed Practices Shape Inclusive Schools
12:07 - The Importance of Transparency and Trust in School Leadership
16:16 - Recognizing and Responding to Student Trauma in the Classroom
19:47 - Leading Schools Through Change and Community Engagement
23:22 - How to Implement Trauma-Informed Teaching Strategies
28:19 - The Five C’s Framework: Creativity, Confidence, Character, Curiosity, and Challenge
30:05 - Overcoming Resistance to Change in Schools
35:21 - The Role of Leadership in Addressing Adversity
40:01 - How Collaboration Strengthens Schools and Leadership
45:24 - How to Take Bold Risks and Drive Meaningful Change
50:00 - Final Reflections and Key Leadership Takeaways
#LeadershipInEducation #TraumaInformedTeaching #InclusiveLeadership
About the Channel Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 50: How Will AI and Technology Shape the Future of Education? (with Rachelle Dene Poth)

How Will AI and Technology Shape the Future of Education?
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau sits down with Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth—an award-winning educator, EdTech consultant, and author—to dive into the intersection of AI, emerging technologies, and education. Rachelle shares insights on fostering meaningful student engagement, navigating AI’s ethical implications, and preparing for the future of learning. Learn how vulnerability, tenacity, and adaptability drive innovation in the classroom.
🚀 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership and technology insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
https://www.instagram.com/Rdene915    
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelledenepoth/   
https://x.com/Rdene915     
Email: Rdene915@gmail.com     
Blog: www.Rdene915.com     
Consulting: bit.ly/thriveineduPD  
Engagement Question:
How do you see AI transforming education in the next five years? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:36 - Meet Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth: Educator, Lawyer, and EdTech Consultant2:18 - The Journey from Law to Education and Emerging Tech5:15 - Core Values That Shape Leadership and Innovation7:48 - The Thrive Model: Tenacity, Honesty, Relatability, Integrity, Vulnerability, Empathy12:10 - Lessons from Things I Wish New and Amplifying Educator Voices14:40 - SEL and Essential Skills: Why They Matter More Than Ever19:04 - The Challenge of Balancing Law and Education23:14 - Addressing AI Resistance: Why Educators Must Embrace Innovation27:24 - Practical First Steps for Teachers Using AI in the Classroom31:06 - The Biggest AI Breakthroughs That Have Transformed Learning35:57 - Professional Development Strategies for Confident AI Implementation40:41 - Taking Risks and Overcoming Fear in AI Adoption45:08 - AI Hallucinations and Ensuring Ethical Use in Education47:25 - What's Next for Dr. Rachelle: New Books and Future Research50:24 - How to Connect with Dr. Rachelle for Speaking, Consulting, and Training
Hashtags:
#AIinEducation #EdTech #EmergingTechnology #TeacherLeadership #SEL #21stCenturySkills #EducationalInnovation #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #RachelleDenePoth
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 49: How Can Building Relationships Improve School Culture? (with Lucas Clarke)

How Can Building Relationships Improve School Culture? 
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau sits down with Lucas Clarke, an academic support teacher and podcast host, to discuss the importance of fostering strong relationships among educators and students. Lucas shares how his experiences navigating personal adversity, supporting colleagues, and embracing collaborative teaching practices have shaped his leadership style. Learn how authentic relationships can transform school culture and elevate learning for all.
🚀 Looking for more leadership strategies? Check out this related episode: [Insert Link Here]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for inspiring weekly insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyZnAWZIpj_ffE9YAZ8t21jPuMhNz7FfL 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrclarke.afterdark/
 
Engagement Question:
What’s one relationship you’ve built that transformed your work or leadership style? Share your story in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:35 - Meet Lucas Clarke: Educator and Podcast Host1:52 - Lucas’s Journey to Teaching and Leadership3:30 - Navigating Personal Adversity While Pursuing Education7:25 - Family and Relationships as Core Values in Career Decisions9:15 - From Fort McMurray to New Brunswick: A Journey of Change12:18 - How Core Values Shape Lucas’s Leadership Style14:03 - Supporting Teachers and Building Belonging16:26 - Creating Safe Spaces for Growth and Confidence18:50 - The Importance of Showing Humanity in Education23:57 - Adversity and Grace: Lessons from Personal and Professional Challenges28:02 - The Power of Lifelong Learning and Refinement30:01 - Overcoming Adversity in a New Role and New Community37:18 - Implementing Change Through Collaborative Co-Teaching41:06 - Risk-Taking and Pushing Boundaries to Advocate for Teachers and Students44:27 - Lucas’s Future Vision and Continuing Growth in Education47:53 - Final Reflections and Advice for Listeners
#TeacherLeadership #BuildingRelationships #EducationalGrowth #AdversityInEducation #TeacherSupport #CollaborativeTeaching #LeadershipDevelopment #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #LucasClarke
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 48: Fostering Collaboration and Storytelling in Leadership to Action Change (With Meghan Lawson)

Fostering Collaboration and Storytelling in Leadership to Action Change
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau connects with Meghan Lawson, a kindness ambassador, author, and education leader, to discuss how small actions can create lasting change. Meghan emphasizes the importance of collaboration, storytelling, and being values-driven as essential tools for leaders. Hear how intentional moves and relationship-building have transformed schools, empowered educators, and built stronger communities.
🚀 Want to expand your leadership toolkit? Check out this related episode: [Insert Link Here]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for inspiring weekly leadership strategies!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.meghanlawson.com
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/Meghan_Lawson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meghanlawsonblog
Engagement Question:
What’s one small move you can make today to create a positive impact in your work or community? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:34 - Meet Meghan Lawson: Kindness Ambassador and Author1:53 - Meghan’s Journey from Teacher to Assistant Superintendent4:08 - Core Values That Shape Meghan’s Leadership Approach7:31 - The Power of Small Moves in Leadership and Change10:37 - Building Trust Through Proximity and Relationships12:06 - Overcoming Adversity with Self-Awareness and Empathy15:05 - Leading Change by Involving Stakeholders18:39 - Words Matter: The Impact of Positive Communication23:31 - Creating Safe Spaces for Storytelling and Collaboration27:04 - Small Actions That Drive Positive Classroom Change29:44 - High Expectations as an Act of Love in Leadership35:05 - Inspiring Hope and Curiosity in School Communities39:19 - Bold Decisions and Navigating Fear in Leadership45:24 - Reimagining K-12 Education for Future Growth47:13 - Key Takeaway: Forward is Forward
#LeadershipInEducation #KindnessInLeadership #SmallMoves 
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.